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A gigantic structure handcrafted by Luiz Gonzaga de Assis in Minas Gerais is considered the largest ox cart in the world. Measuring six meters long and powered by 20 oxen, the piece attracts tourists, reinforces traditions and inspires admiration for its grandeur and cultural significance.
The largest ox cart in the world draws attention for its grandeur and the manual work that transformed a dream into reality.
A colossal structure, which not only impresses with its size, but also with its dedication of those who designed and built it.
But what makes this work so special? A unique detail is behind this monumental project, and it is capable of attracting the curiosity of tourists and experts from all over the world.
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According to information from G1 portal, the impressive piece was created by Luiz Gonzaga de Assis, a rural producer from Senhora dos Remédios, in Campo das Vertentes, Minas Gerais.
Six meters long, 2,44 meters axle and wheels that reach 1,56 meters in diameter, the ox cart stands out as a craft and cultural landmark.
To move it, the combined effort of 20 oxen is required, far above the standard of two animals used in traditional models.
Luiz Gonzaga, now 83 years old, revealed that he always dreamed of a grand ox cart, but never found a model that met his expectations.
“I was always looking for a really big car to buy. Since I couldn’t find one, I had this big one made,” the rural producer told the G1 portal.
The piece, created in 2019, is not catalogued by Guinness World Records, but is considered the largest in the world by the creator's family.
Manual production
The construction of the giant ox cart was entrusted to the carpenter Luiz Antônio Malta, who accepted the challenge even without having precise measurements.
He reports that the construction process, carried out manually over 45 days, required a lot of patience and creativity.
“I told him that he could do it, but he didn’t have the measurements. We got the wood, hunting for one that didn’t fit, and we went through the difficulty,” Malta told the G1 portal.
The car, almost twice the size of a traditional model, features impressive details, such as the owner's initials engraved on the wheels, taxes, the year of manufacture and even a license plate.
According to the carpenter, manual work was essential to respect the curves and lines of the piece, without the use of electrical machines. Every detail reflects the tradition and care of artisanal work.
The connection with the oxen
So that the giant car could be moved, Luiz Gonzaga trained 20 tamed oxen, which respond to orders without the need for aggression.
He explains that communication with animals is based on simple verbal commands, such as “let’s go” to start movement and “oua” to stop.
“You just have to know how to talk to them, and they will understand,” highlighted the producer.
Luiz Gonzaga's relationship with ox carts dates back to his childhood, and this legacy lives on at the Nogueira Timóteo family farm.
According to the G1 portal, the property also houses a workshop where he exercises his skills as a carpenter.
Success in festivals and tourism
Since its creation, the giant ox cart has been a true tourist attraction. The work attracts attention at festivals and parades held in Minas Gerais cities such as Ibertioga, Lima Duarte, Vitorino and Pouso Alegre.
Furthermore, in August 2024, the car gained a sign on the Nascente do Rio Doce Circuit, consolidating itself as part of the region's tourist route.
For Neimar Assis, son of Luiz Gonzaga, seeing his father happy with the ox cart is a source of pride.
“We can see the happiness in his eyes when he brings everyone together to talk about his ox cart, his things,” Neimar told the G1 portal. The car's success goes beyond its size; it is a symbol of tradition and persistence.
A work for history
More than just a curiosity, the largest ox cart in the world represents a living piece of Brazil's cultural history.
It combines creativity, artisanal techniques and a passion for a legacy that spans generations. The work is an invitation for more people to learn about and appreciate the country's cultural riches.
And you, what do you think of this gigantic work full of history? Could other countries reproduce something as authentic as this Brazilian symbol?
Cool project that needs to be observed and strengthened for the rural tourism circuit. Urgently Minas Gerais government, Federal and Municipal
I'm going to buy 03 farms in the surrounding area and turn them into hotels and other things.
The ox cart on the screen is not necessarily,
“moved” by the twenty oxen, but YES pulled by them…
There is a difference between moving and pulling…